The latest generation of the Toyota Hilux has entered a new era. For the first time in its history, the nameplate offers a fully electric variant alongside existing gasoline, diesel, and mild-hybrid options. In Australia, the zero-emission truck is now available to order, sitting at the top of the local Hilux lineup as its most expensive model.

Jumping straight to the numbers, the entry-level Hilux BEV SR double-cab chassis starts at a hefty AU$74,990 (equal to US$51,400). That’s AU$20,000 (US$13,700) more than the equivalent diesel version with a manual gearbox. Move over to the electric SR double-cab pickup, and the price climbs to AU$76,490 (US$ 52,500), which still leaves it AU$ 17,000 (US$ 11,700) above its mild-hybrid diesel automatic counterpart.

More: Toyota’s $15,800 Pickup Went To Bangkok And Came Back Looking Like A Brabus

The SR5 sits at the top of the electric Hilux range, largely by default, as the Rogue and Rugged X trims skip electrification altogether. Priced at AU$82,990 (US$56,900), it now stands as the most expensive Hilux you can buy in Australia.

Put that into perspective, and the electric SR5 carries a AU$19,000 (US$13,000) premium over the diesel SR5, while also undercutting expectations by coming in AU$11,000 (US$7,500) above the former range-topping mild-hybrid diesel Rugged X. More tellingly, it lands right on top of the starting price of the new Ford Ranger Super Duty, which says plenty about where Toyota is positioning its first electric truck.

Technical Specifications

But what do you actually get for the money? The Hilux BEV runs a dual-motor setup delivering a combined 193 hp (144 kW / 196 PS) and 468 Nm (345 lb-ft) of torque. It comes with full-time AWD and six selectable drive modes via the Multi-Terrain Select system, so it’s not short on off-road intent.

More: Toyota Turns The New Hilux Into A Rugged Three-Row SUV

Power comes from a 59.2 kWh battery, good for a claimed 245–315 km (152–196 miles) of range on the NEDC cycle, depending on spec. That’s hardly ideal for long hauls across the vast Australian outback, though a 10–80% charge takes around 30 minutes. There’s also a practical touch, as a 1,500 W inverter in the center console lets it double as a mobile power source when needed.

Underneath, the ladder-frame chassis gets a bespoke De Dion rear suspension with leaf springs, plus additional reinforcements to cope with the battery weight. Towing is capped at 2,000 kg (4,409 lbs), well short of the diesel’s 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs) figure.

Design And Features

Visually, the Hilux BEV sets itself apart with a closed-off grille and a set of distinct 17-inch alloy wheels shaped for improved aerodynamics. Color choices are kept tight, as they’re limited to Glacier White, Frosted White, and Ash Slate, reinforcing its fleet-focused brief, even if private buyers are still free to place an order.

More: Toyota Says The New Hilux’s Design Is Just “Fine”

As for equipment, the SR trim comes well stocked. LED headlights, body-colored bumpers, side steps, fabric upholstery, and all-weather floor mats are all standard. So are dual-zone climate control, a pair of 12.3-inch displays with built-in navigation, eight airbags, and the full Toyota Safety Sense ADAS suite.

The SR5 adds auto-leveling headlights, LED tech for the footlights and taillights, retractable and heated mirrors, privacy glass, leather upholstery, heated seats and steering wheel, an eight-speaker audio system, a wireless charging pad and more. Thanks to the shared design, the BEV is compatible with most of the optional accessories already available for the diesel, including the pictured bull bar.

Modest Sales Target

Given its pricing and rather underwhelming driving range, Toyota keeping expectations in check with just 500 units for Australia’s first year doesn’t come as much of a shock. Most are likely headed straight for mining and construction fleets, where outright range matters less than predictable daily use. To help make that case, the company says the HiLux BEV has already been pushed through extensive testing in remote outback conditions, working closely with mining operators.

Australia won’t be the only market in play. The electric HiLux is also headed for Europe, Japan, South Africa, and several Southeast Asian countries.

For now, Thailand is the first place where buyers can actually place an order, fittingly as the truck’s production hub. There, the Hilux Travo-e starts at ฿1,491,000 ($45,300), undercutting expectations slightly but still landing ฿165,000 ($5,000) above a comparable diesel automatic Hilux Travo 4TREX.

Toyota Australia

The Wuling Hongguang Mini EV has been around since 2020, yet it has already cycled into what’s being called its fifth generation. If that feels excessive, you’re not alone. In reality, these aren’t clean-sheet overhauls so much as heavy facelifts, which says plenty about the pace at which China’s car industry moves. Even so, racking up so many redesigns in just six years is an impressive feat.

This latest iteration leans into a redesigned exterior with a soft, almost sugar-cube look, while also stepping up inside with improved tech and a more polished cabin. Range has increased too.

Built by the SAIC-GM-Wuling partnership, the micro EV has quietly become a runaway success in China, with cumulative sales surpassing 1.9 million units by the end of 2025. This version continues to widen its appeal with a more practical five-door layout, a bodystyle first introduced late in 2024 on the outgoing model.

More: A $9,500 Hatch Stole Tesla’s Best-Seller Crown In China

Visually, the highlight is the new face with a more upright nose giving the car a friendlier, almost toy-like expression. Round LED headlights and taillights are linked by a chrome strip. The overall silhouette remains familiar, but every panel has been reworked and paired with a brighter, more playful color palette.

It’s Small, Really Small

The five-door Hongguang Mini measures 3,268 mm (128.7 inches) in length, just 12 mm (0.5 inch) longer than before, while keeping the same 2,190 mm (86.2 inches) wheelbase. The two-door version remains the more compact option, coming in at 3,064 mm (120.6 inches) long with a 2,010 mm (79.1 inches) wheelbase.

More: GM’s New SUV Is Bigger Than An Equinox And Starts Under $8,600

The interior looks familiar, but the dashboard has been redesigned with a larger 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen and slimmer climate vents. Furthermore, the physical climate controls have been removed entirely, and a column-mounted gear selector opens up extra space between the front seats.

Cargo space stands at 170 liters (6 cu ft) with the seats up, expanding to 838 liters (29.6 cu ft) when the rear bench is folded. The company also claims 20 separate storage compartments throughout the cabin, which should help offset the Mini’s modest footprint in everyday use.

40 HP, But Range Does The Talking

Every version sticks with a rear-mounted electric motor, delivering just 40 hp (30 kW / 41 PS) and 85 Nm (63 lb-ft) of torque, identical to the outgoing model. Performance remains modest, as expected, with top speed capped at 101 km/h (62 mph).

More: GM’s China Sales Are Down 75%, And The Clock Running Out Isn’t One It Controls

Buyers get a choice of two battery packs. The entry-level model runs a 16.2 kWh unit, good for 205 km (127 miles) of CLTC range. Step up to the 25.1 kWh battery, and that figure climbs to 301 km (187 miles). In both cases, charging from 30% to 80% takes around 35 minutes, which keeps downtime relatively short for a city-focused EV.

How Much Does It Cost?

The five-door 2026 Wuling Hongguang Mini EV is already on sale in China, with pricing starting at ¥44,800 ($6,500) and rising to ¥55,800 ($8,100) for the range-topping version with the larger battery. Factor in current trade-in subsidies, and the entry point drops slightly further to ¥42,800 ($6,200), reinforcing its position as one of the most accessible EVs on the market.

BMW is kicking off its Neue Klasse rollout in China with a version built specifically for the market, and the new iX3 LWB makes that clear from the outset. This all-electric SUV stretches its wheelbase to free up more rear-seat space, while also packing in tech and safety systems tuned to local expectations.

More: BMW’s Most Traditional Sedan Becomes Its Most Futuristic Yet With New i3

While the official debut of the BMW iX3 LWB is scheduled for the 2026 Beijing Auto Show in April, the company has already shared photos on its social media accounts, following the camouflaged prototypes they showed us last January.

Different Handles For Different Rules

On the surface, the iX3 LWB closely mirrors the standard model, but the details start to separate it. The rear doors are slightly stretched, a result of the longer wheelbase, and the door handles now use a semi-enclosed design. That change is not just aesthetic, it aligns with Chinese regulations that restrict electronically controlled handles. It may also mark one of the first instances of a Western manufacturer developing two distinct door-handle solutions to comply with differing regional rules.

There are a couple of other small but telling tweaks. A new camera sensor sits on the roof spoiler, and the tailgate carries Chinese lettering, reinforcing that this version is very much market-specific.

The headline change is the extra 108 mm (4.25 inches) added to the wheelbase, bringing it to 3,005 mm (118.3 inches). That is actually 30 mm longer than the ICE-powered X3 LWB and puts it right in line with the current X5’s footprint between the axles.

More: The BMW iM3 May Have Just Shown Its Face For The First Time

Assuming the overhangs stay the same, overall length should land around 4,890 mm (192.5 inches). That places it slightly ahead of the X3 LWB, yet still just shy of an X5, which is an interesting bit of positioning.

Localized Software

Inside, BMW has yet to show the cabin, though expectations are that it will largely carry over from the standard iX3. The bigger story is software. The new BMW Operating System X is expected to integrate Huawei HarmonyOS Next, along with AI models from Alibaba and DeepSeek, plus navigation from Amap with 3D mapping.

BMW is also rolling out a “China-exclusive all-scenario driver assistance system” developed in collaboration with Momenta. This promises to be “deeply customized for Chinese users” providing sophisticated ADAS for China’s “complex urban environments, highways, and long-distance travel”.

Finally, BMW engineers have tweaked the chassis, electronics, and suspension of the Neue Klasse architecture for the Chinese market, targeting “an elegant balance of comfort and stability in diverse driving scenarios.”

Same Power, Big Numbers

As for the powertrain, the iX3 50L xDrive mirrors its standard iX3 counterpart. It runs a dual-motor setup producing a combined 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS) and 645 Nm (476 lb-ft) of torque, paired with a 108.7 kWh battery pack. That battery is rated for more than 900 km (559 miles) of range on the CLTC cycle and supports DC fast charging at up to 400 kW.

Built In China, For China

This version of the iX3 will be exclusive to China, built locally through the BMW Brilliance partnership at its Shenyang plant. Pricing remains under wraps for now, though that will come into focus closer to launch.

More: BMW Focuses On SUVs And Sedans, But China Might Want This Instead

Josef Borrell, CEO of BMW Brilliance, framed it as more than just another variant, positioning the long-wheelbase iX3 as a key step in blending BMW’s global tech with locally developed innovation.

“The new generation BMW iX3 long wheelbase represents a significant milestone for us in integrating innovation, driving pleasure, and digital intelligence for the Chinese market,” he said. “The new generation of technologies driven by our Chinese R&D team is gradually becoming an important part of BMW’s global technology landscape and brand DNA.”

Skoda is lifting the veil a little further on its upcoming flagship, previewing the Peaq with fresh details and a camouflaged prototype. Sitting at the very top of the lineup, this large, fully electric SUV brings three rows of seating and is scheduled to hit European roads in mid-2026.

Size is a big part of the story. At 4,874 mm (191.9 inches) long, it stretches 116 mm (4.6 inches) beyond the ICE-powered Kodiaq. More telling is the 2,965 mm (116.7 inches) wheelbase, which outgrows the Kodiaq by 174 mm (6.9 inches) and even eclipses the Superb by 124 mm (4.9 inches), putting it right alongside the Chinese-spec VW ID.6 in footprint.

More: A VW Group Brand Lost 96% of Its China Sales, And Now It’s Game Over

Despite the heavy camouflage, the near-production prototype already hints at a softer, more restrained look than the Vision 7S concept from 2022. The so-called “Tech-Deck Face” remains, pairing slim full LED Matrix headlights with a covered grille, much like the Epiq, Elroq, and Enyaq. The Peaq sets itself apart up front, though, with a more distinct bumper design featuring diagonal intakes that give it a sharper edge.

Skoda will offer a Sportline trim featuring black accents and optional 21-inch alloy wheels. The side profile is defined by large doors with flush handles, while the upright rear design hints at a spacious and practical cabin.

A Family-Focused Interior

The flagship SUV will be available in both five-seat and seven-seat configurations. The former offers a substantial 1,010 liters (35.7 cu-ft) of cargo space, while the latter provides 299 liters (10.6 cu-ft) with all seats in place. Both versions include a 37-liter (1.3 cu-ft) frunk.

More: The Fabia RS Exists, You Just Can’t Buy It For The Road

Inside, highlights include a new 13.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, an optional augmented-reality head-up display, and the largest panoramic roof ever fitted to a Skoda. This roof features electrochromic technology called Dynamic Shade Control. For added comfort, the “Relax Package” brings ergonomic massage seats with leg rests, a wellness app, and a high-end Sonos audio system.

Skoda says more than 50 kg (110 lbs) of recycled materials have been used throughout the cabin, alongside both animal-free and genuine leather upholstery options. The Peaq also introduces a fresh set of “Simply Clever” features aimed at improving everyday usability.

Powertrain Options Breakdown

Under the skin, the EV ides on the VW Group’s familiar MEB architecture. It will be offered with two battery sizes and three powertrain configurations. The entry-level 60 variant features a rear-mounted motor producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS), paired with a 63 kWh battery delivering over 460 km (286 miles) of range.

More: Skoda’s Flagship Plugs Into Sleeper Mode, But The Stopwatch Has Other Ideas

The 90 and 90x variants use a larger 91 kWh battery, enabling over 600 km (373 miles) of range and 10-80% charging in under 28 minutes. The 90 remains rear-wheel drive with 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS), while the 90x adds a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup producing 295 hp (220 kW / 300 PS), good for 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 6.7 seconds.

Production will take place at Skoda’s Mlada Boleslav plant in the Czech Republic. When it arrives in mid-2026, the Peaq will go up against rivals such as the Kia EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 9, Peugeot E-5008, and Volvo EX90.

Skoda

Lexus is bringing its Interactive Manual Drive system to Europe, following its debut in Japan. The technology simulates a manual gearshift feel in an electrified powertrain, giving drivers a sense of mechanical engagement the brand says was lost in the transition away of combustion.

The system comes standard on F Sport trims of the updated Lexus RZ, which was detailed in Europe exactly one year ago, with first deliveries scheduled to begin this spring. Earlier prototypes previewed in 2022 featured a physical clutch and gear lever, but the production version leans heavily on software, making it closer in feel to a simulated automatic than a real manual.

More: Lexus Quietly Killed Its Smallest EV, And Hardly Anyone Noticed

Using steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, drivers can cycle through eight virtual gears, with a digital tachometer indicating optimal shift points. They can also choose between three levels of synthetic engine sound, each synced to the simulated gear changes.

Similar to the Honda Prelude’s S+ Shift gear system, it goes further than just noise. The setup calculates virtual torque based on throttle input and vehicle speed, then feeds that back through the drivetrain. The result is an illusion of real shifts, complete with torque interruptions, engine braking, and even a hint of G-force nudging you along. At least, that’s the theory Lexus is selling.

Lexus is not alone in attempting to bring a more engaging gear-changing experience to electrified models. Similar systems are already offered by other automakers, including Hyundai with the fully electric Ioniq 5 N.

Steer-By-Wire

Lexus is also introducing its steer-by-wire system in Europe after years of delays. Standard on F Sport models and optional on the rest of the lineup, it replaces the mechanical steering column with a yoke-style controller and a fully digital connection.

More: Yoke’s Over, Say Chinese Lawmakers

The futuristic steering setup features a tight 200-degree lock-to-lock ratio. In practice, that means no hand-over-hand turning during a U-turn, something that would otherwise be awkward with a yoke.

The most powerful version of Lexus’ electric crossover in Europe is the RZ 550e F Sport AWD, producing a combined 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS). While this can’t match the 424 hp (313 kW / 426 PS) of the Japanes-spec RZ 600e Sport Performance, it is enough to offer a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration in a respectable 4.4 seconds.

More: The Next Lexus IS May Go In A Very Different Direction

The latest update to the RZ lineup introduced a larger 77 kWh battery pack, delivering a WLTP range of up to 568 km (353 miles) for the entry-level RZ 350e FWD. Additional updates include a battery preconditioning system and a standard 22 kW onboard AC charger.

What About The US?

The Interactive Manual Drive system is also included as standard equipment on the US-spec RZ 550e F Sport. However, the steer-by-wire setup with the yoke will not be offered in North America.

Lexus RZ 550e F Sport AWD

Ford Pro’s van lineup is already sprawling, with models like the fully electric E-Transit Custom and E-Transit covering a lot of ground. Still, that hasn’t stopped Ford Pro from adding another name to the roster with the all-new Transit City. Built on an EV-focused platform developed by Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC) and assembled in China, it will be offered in mainland Europe and the UK.

To further slash costs, Ford has pursued an aggressively simplified strategy. There’s just one trim, no options list, and very little room for personalization. It’s as pared back as it gets. The design follows suit. You get a straightforward look with modern LED lighting linked by a closed-off grille, clean body surfaces, black wheels, and unpainted plastic bumpers that make no attempt to hide their budget-friendly intent.

More: Volvo’s First Commercial Van Looks Familiar Because It Is

The Transit City is available in three body styles, including a standard panel van, a long-wheelbase high-roof variant, and a chassis cab version. The latter is designed to serve as a blank canvas for conversions by aftermarket specialists.

Payload capacity ranges between 1,085 kg (2,392 lbs) and 1,530 kg (3,373 lbs), depending on the specification. As for the available space at the back, the largest van can hold up to 8.5 cubic meters (300 cubic feet) of cargo and has a loading space length of 3,070 mm (120.9 inches).

More: VW’s ID. Buzz Picks Up A Feature No Minivan Has Any Business Offering

Despite its budget character and lack of options, the standard equipment is quite generous for the segment. The dashboard features a 12.3-inch touchscreen running Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, and plenty of storage compartments.

Furthermore, the van comes standard with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and even a heated driver’s seat.

A Dedicated EV

Unlike other models in Ford Pro’s commercial vehicle lineup, the Transit City is a dedicated battery-electric vehicle with no internal combustion or hybrid variants on the horizon. The company claims the electric powertrain will help reduce maintenance costs by up to 40% compared to a diesel van.

More: These Chinese Trucks Look Like Ford Rejects

It rides on a ladder-frame chassis developed by the JMC joint venture and is fitted with a front-mounted electric motor producing 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS). Energy is stored in a 56 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery pack, allowing a WLTP range of up to 254 km (158 miles). While that might sound modest to some, Ford notes that typical users in this segment average less than 110 km (68 miles) per day.

Charging is handled via an 87 kW peak DC fast-charging rate, enabling 50 km (31 miles) of range to be added in 10 minutes, or a 10-80% top-up in approximately 33 minutes. Using the standard 11 kW AC charger, a full charge takes about five hours.

Focused On Affordability

Ford hasn’t put a price tag on it yet, but it has made confirmed that the Transit City will slot between the smaller E-Transit Custom and the full-size E-Transit. Right now, those models start at £43,630 ($58,300) and £49,545 ($66,200), respectively, which gives a fairly tight window for where this new addition is likely to land.

Elon Musk has confirmed that Tesla is working on a new model, and the internet has done what the internet does: immediately begun speculating. The leading theory involves a rugged, three-row SUV inspired by the Cybertruck.

Unless, of course, the big reveal turns out to be the three-row Model Y L recently spotted at Gigafactory Texas, in which case Musk’s gift for generating hype will have once again conjured a drum roll worthy of a stadium concert. Wouldn’t be the first time.

But we digress. On March 24, the Tesla CEO shared a post on X noting that the Cybertruck’s rear bench is large enough to fit three child seats or three adults. A follower then suggested he “make a minivan,” to which Musk replied: “Something way cooler than a minivan is coming.”

More: Tesla Roadster Delayed Again, Weeks Late But Years Behind

One credible scenario involves what has been dubbed by the internet, the CyberSUV. Back in September 2025, a clay model appeared in the background of an official Tesla video, suggesting a potential SUV sibling to the Cybertruck.

The mockup featured a redesigned roofline and greenhouse, while the front-end design, full-width LED bar, and flat stainless steel surfacing appeared to carry over from the truck.

The timing matters, too, since Tesla is winding down production of the Model S and Model X this year, leaving a conspicuous gap in its production capacity.

More: Musk Lectures Legacy Brands On Cars, Even As Tesla Drifts Beyond Them

A CyberSUV would be larger and more spacious than the Model Y and Model X, positioning it against full-size SUVs such as the Cadillac Escalade.

Repurposing the Cybertruck platform for an SUV makes strategic sense. Sales of the electric truck are abysmal, given initial expectations, and an SUV twin could help Tesla increase production at Giga Texas while tapping a segment that American buyers never stopped loving. Keeping R&D costs down would be another advantage, particularly if the new model shared its underpinnings along with numerous exterior and interior components with the Cybertruck.

Could It Be A Longer Model Y?

Well this is interesting at Giga Texas today … what do YOU think this is? 🤔😎 pic.twitter.com/U9pLvqbf7L

— Joe Tegtmeyer 🚀 🤠🛸😎 (@JoeTegtmeyer) March 23, 2026

As we mentioned, another possibility is a stretched Model Y heading to North America. Last year, Musk stated that this model wouldn’t enter US production until late 2026, if at all. Footage from outside Gigafactory Texas, however, tells a somewhat different story.

More: Musk Said The U.S. Wouldn’t Get This Tesla. Texas Factory Footage Disagrees

Drone pilot Joe Tegtmeyer captured a large vehicle shell wrapped in blue plastic and sitting inside a wooden crate. Many believe the shell belongs to the Tesla Model Y L, already sold in China with extended bodywork and six-seat seating.

Whether the new Tesla will actually be cooler than a minivan remains to be seen. Hopefully, Tesla will clear up the mystery soon.

Something way cooler than a minivan is coming

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 25, 2026

The EX30 may be the smallest SUV in Volvo’s lineup, yet that hasn’t stopped the brand from turning it into a working vehicle. Meet the Volvo EX30 Cargo, a second-stage conversion developed by the brand’s UK arm, pitched as a compact and very quick way to move parcels around town.

From the outside, Volvo’s first commercial vehicle looks just like a regular EX30 if you look past the pitch-black rear windows. Volvo will even offer it in Cross Country form, adding a tougher look and a touch more ground clearance for those who like their delivery runs with a bit of attitude.

More: After Just Two Years, Volvo Drops Its Cheapest EV From America

Open the tailgate, though, and the illusion falls away. What you find is effectively a two-seat van hiding inside a small SUV shell. The rear bench has been removed entirely, pushing cargo capacity from 318 liters (11.2 cu ft) in the passenger version to a much more useful 1,000 liters (35.3 cu ft).

To make it genuinely usable, Volvo added a bulkhead to separate the cargo area, paired with a flat load floor and tougher interior paneling that should shrug off daily abuse. Around the back, the rear doors now open wider, there’s an extra work light for low-visibility jobs, and an underfloor subframe brings additional mounting points into play. Payload capacity is rated at 390 kg (860 lbs).

Despite its work-focused role, the EX30 Cargo retains the performance, safety, and technology of the standard model. After all, the conversion can be applied to both new vehicles and existing stock, making it available across the full lineup.

Review: New Zeekr X Got Me Questioning My Feelings For Volvo

The base Cargo Core trim comes equipped with automatic LED headlights, 18-inch Aero alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto.

Stepping up to the Cargo Plus adds 19-inch wheels, a black roof, heated seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, a wireless charging pad, Pilot Assist, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.

In terms of performance, the entry-level EV offers 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS), while the twin-motor AWD flagship delivers 422 hp (315 kW / 428 PS). The most powerful version completes the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in 3.6 seconds, making it an unexpectedly rapid way to deliver a small parcel in Britain.

More: New Base Volvo EX30 In Europe Has 45% Less Power Than Yours

The bad news is that the EX30 Cargo is exclusively available through Volvo UK’s fleet sales channels, so private buyers are excluded. Pricing starts at £36,010 ($48,200), which is £2,950 ($3,900) more than the least expensive passenger version. Availability in other markets has not been confirmed and appears unlikely.

Volvo UK

The dream of a Sony-branded electric car has officially run out of road, ending a project that once promised to blend consumer tech with automotive engineering. Sony Honda Mobility has confirmed it is pulling the plug on the development and launch of its entire EV lineup, including the Afeela 1 sedan set to arrive later this year, along with a follow-up SUV previously penciled in for 2028.

The decision effectively collapses the joint venture formed in 2022, which aimed to combine Sony’s software and entertainment ecosystem with Honda’s manufacturing backbone. What once looked like a credible attempt to rethink the in-car experience has instead unraveled before a single production model reached customers.

More: EV Bets Already Cost Four Legacy Carmakers $70B, And The Tab Keeps Climbing

The project’s demise traces directly back to Honda’s sweeping strategy reset announced earlier this month. The automaker pulled the plug on several key EV programs, including the Honda 0 Saloon, the 0 SUV, and the Acura RSX crossover, all of which had been planned for North America.

As Honda pivots away from its previous electrification targets to stem a projected 2.5 trillion yen ($15.7 billion) loss, it has withdrawn the technical assets and dedicated platforms that Afeela was supposed to use. Without the automaker’s hardware support, the joint venture admitted it does not have a viable path forward to bring the models to market as originally planned.

More: Honda’s Prologue Might Soon Become An EV Epilogue

The news comes shortly after Sony Honda Mobility of America announced the grand opening of the Afeela Studio and Delivery Hub in Torrance, California, on March 16. Instead of taking delivery of the Afeela 1, those who placed reservations for the electric sedan will receive full refunds.

Is It Game Over For Sony?

Sony’s push into the automotive space began with the Vision-S 01 and Vision-S 02 prototypes, unveiled at CES in 2020 and 2022, with the intention of evolving into production models. In 2022, Sony partnered with Honda to form the joint venture that would bring that ambition closer to reality.

The Afeela brand name was introduced at CES 2023 alongside an early prototype. By CES 2025, the production version of the electric sedan debuted as the Afeela 1, with reservations opening via a refundable $200 deposit and a target price of $89,900.

More: After Honda Kills Three EVs, Afeela Tries Something Shiny While It Still Can

The last chapter was written at CES 2026 with the unveiling of the Afeela Prototype 2026, which was intended to evolve into a production SUV by 2028. In March 2026, the company also revealed two art cars based on the Afeela 1 in collaboration with Matt Copson and Hajime Sorayama, though by then the project was already on borrowed time.

In its announcement, the company stated that Sony Honda Mobility will continue discussions with Sony and Honda regarding its future business plans. Whether it can repurpose its technology and resources, or whether this venture will stand as a costly experiment, remains unclear.

Update: So much for waiting on the official reveal. The first proper look at Land Rover’s newly spun-off Freelander brand has arrived early, thanks to a set of crash test images from China that show far more than intended just days before the March 31 debut.

The Freelander-badged SUV appears significantly larger than its Land Rover predecessor, adopting a more upright, squared-off stance. Visually, it sits somewhere between a Defender and a Discovery, with boxy headlights featuring modern LED graphics, a tall rear end, thick plastic cladding, and Freelander lettering pressed into the bodywork.

A look inside reveals a tech-heavy cabin, headlined by what appears to be a pillar-to-pillar display stretching across the base of the windscreen. It is paired with a large, freestanding infotainment screen. Beyond the tech, the electrified SUV seems to offer a three-row, six-seat configuration, trimmed in light blue leather upholstery.

The original story follows below.

Photos Weibo

The Freelander name is making an unexpected return, though not in the way many would have predicted just a few years ago. Jaguar Land Rover’s Chinese joint venture with Chery has confirmed that the new Freelander will debut on March 31. This time, the badge does not belong to Land Rover at all, instead re-emerging as a standalone electrified brand with no traditional ties to its former parent.

The first teaser focuses on the rectangular headlights, featuring pixel-style LED graphics. We can also spot an upright nose and hints of fender extensions, paired with gray plastic cladding on the front bumper.

More: Jaguar Land Rover’s Design Boss Is Out After Two Decades With No Successor Named

The upright lines across the front seem to nod to the original design. The Land Rover Freelander first arrived in 1997, followed by a second generation in 2006 that stayed on sale until 2015, when it was ultimately phased out in favor of the Discovery Sport.

Overall, the new model leans heavily on the Land Rover Defender’s design playbook, much like a growing number of SUVs coming out of China. Still, with JLR’s UK studio leading the design, this one at least has a legitimate claim to the look.

Earlier spy shots have already given away much of the Freelander’s stance, revealing a boxy silhouette that leans heavily into SUV convention. It is expected to feature a three-row layout, with an overall length stretching beyond 5,100 mm (200.8 inches), placing it firmly in large family hauler territory.

Under the skin, the SUV is expected to ride on Chery’s modular architecture. The platform is designed to support both fully electric and range-extender powertrains, while also enabling ultra-fast charging,

More: Jaguar Built Its Last Gas Car, Now It Might Build China’s Next Best-Seller

Production of the new model will be centralized at the CJLR plant in Changshu, China. The facility is currently undergoing a ¥3 billion ($436 million) investment as it transitions away from the aging Land Rover Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque, preparing instead for the upcoming Freelander lineup.

The Chinese joint venture has also begun scaling up its workforce, recently sharing a recruitment poster on social media that lists more than 30 open positions across its Shanghai and Suzhou operations. The recruitment drive confirms that JLR and Chery are building an entirely new corporate infrastructure. While the new brand will initially launch in China, a wider global rollout is planned for the near future.

Spy Shots: Chery-JLR Freelander SUV for China

Freelander is a new brand under Chery-JLR. The Chinese name is 神行者 (Shén Xíngzhě). Freelander will manufacture various SUVs based on Chery platforms.

The spy shots show a boxy off-road-style SUV during winter tests in Northern… pic.twitter.com/IduwHRG5vw

— Tycho de Feijter (@TychodeFeijter) February 1, 2026

BMW may have taken a one-size-fits-all approach with the current i5 and 5-Series, but that strategy is already on borrowed time. Looking ahead, the next generation is expected to split the two paths entirely, following the template set by the newer i3 / 3-Series and iX3 / X3, where each powertrain gets its own dedicated platform.

The transition is already underway. BMW has begun rolling out its Neue Klasse era with the all-electric iX3 SUV, and the i3 sedan close behind. It has also officially confirmed that Neue Klasse styling and technology will be applied to as many as 40 new and updated BMW models by 2027.

More: BMW Leak Reveals Two Very Different Futures For 2028 X5 And 7-Series Facelift

Joachim Post, BMW’s board member for R&D, explained the company’s thinking in a conversation with Auto Express:

“When we as BMW develop a new technology, we’re making 2.5 million cars a year in a lot of derivatives. What is always important for us is to scale. We are a global player, and we must scale our technology into the whole fleet to get that economy of scale. That gives you a feeling that once we do things, we don’t do it for just one car,” he told the magazine.

Neue Klasse Platform Expansion

Beyond individual components such as electric motors, battery packs, infotainment systems, and ADAS, those comments extend to the EV-focused Neue Klasse architecture. Post suggested that the platform will eventually underpin larger models, including future iterations of the i5 and i7. That would clearly separate them from their combustion-powered 5-Series and 7-Series counterparts, which are expected to continue using the CLAR platform.

More: BMW’s Already Facelifting The Facelifted Neue Klasse 5-Series

The current 5-Series and i5 arrived in 2023 and are expected to receive a facelift in 2027. That timeline points to a full generational replacement toward the end of the decade. A similar pattern applies to the 7-Series and i7, which debuted in 2022 and are now approaching their own mid-cycle update with revised styling and technology.

EV Proportions Shift

By moving away from the constraints of platforms designed around inline-six engines and traditional transmissions, BMW designers gain significantly more flexibility. While a cohesive family identity will likely remain, dedicated EV models will inevitably feature different proportions and packaging compared to their ICE counterparts.

The first clear example will be the next 3-Series, expected to arrive as a heavily updated evolution of the current model. Spy shots already indicate a different dash-to-axle ratio compared to the i3 sedan, even though both share similar visual cues.

More: BMW’s New 3-Series Wagon Just Crashed The i3 Party

Similarly, shifting the next i5 and i7 onto dedicated EV platforms should bring shorter overhangs, longer wheelbases, and more cab-forward silhouettes. The focus here leans heavily toward interior space and aerodynamic efficiency.

BMW, however, appears keen to avoid the rounded, egg-like profiles seen on the Mercedes-Benz EQE and EQS, which struggled to win over buyers. Mercedes itself is now pivoting, with future EVs set to more closely resemble their combustion-engine equivalents.

Hyundai’s smallest EV is getting a taste of the finer things. The automaker is taking its most compact electric vehicle upmarket with the debut of the Lounge trim for the Casper Electric in South Korea, also known as the Inster in export markets. The new micro-SUV trim serves as a premium alternative to the rugged Cross model, sitting at the top of the range.

On the outside, the Lounge is distinguished by a new grille pattern, an exclusive Glow Mint paint option, a lighter Medium Metallic Paint finish for the plastic cladding, and a set of 17-inch futuristic-looking alloy wheels. Like the Cross, it now comes standard with full-LED headlights and taillights.

Review: The Hyundai Inster Ticks Many Boxes Except The One That Counts

The interior is where the Lounge truly sets itself apart from its siblings. The headline feature is genuine leather upholstery, which remains genuinely rare in this segment. Hyundai has also fitted knit-material headliner and sun visors, along with Kevlar cone speakers for improved sound quality.

Hyundai Casper Electric Lounge

The 10.25-inch infotainment display and matching digital instrument cluster are both standard, as is Level 2 ADAS. A sunroof and wireless charging pad are optional extras. Hyundai also offers a range of accessories including interior storage solutions, pet-friendly items, roof racks, a retractable awning, and an inflatable mattress.

Powertrain And Pricing

Mechanically, the Casper Electric Lounge uses the more potent 113 hp (84.5 kW / 115 PS) electric motor paired with the larger 49 kWh battery pack. Driving range is rated at 295 km (183 miles), which is 10 km (6 miles) more than the Cross but 20 km (12 miles) fewer than the Inspiration, a gap attributed to the different wheel size.

Hyundai Casper Electric

Predictably, the Casper Electric Lounge is the most expensive version of the urban EV on sale in Korea. It is priced at ₩36,410,000 ($24,500), or ₩1,260,000 ($850) more than the Cross. According to the Korean Car Blog, however, the effective price drops closer to ₩20 million (around $13,400) once EV subsidies in Seoul are factored in.

More: New Hyundai Inster Is A Tiny Electric Crossover For The Masses

Hyundai has yet to confirm whether the new flagship trim will reach export markets under the Inster name, following the precedent set by the Cross.

The automaker also continues to offer an gas-powered Casper in Korea, featuring a 180 mm (7.1 inches) shorter wheelbase than the Casper Electric. It is available with naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions of a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, though it misses out on the Lounge and Cross grades offered on its fully electric sibling

Hyundai Casper Electric

Smart may be best known for its pint-sized two-door hatchbacks, but its lineup has been steadily expanding to include SUVs and coupe-style crossovers. Now it is pushing further upmarket with something entirely different. The Geely and Mercedes-backed brand has unveiled its first fastback, pairing an aerodynamic silhouette with what it describes as, “shark-inspired” styling cues.

More: You’re Not Wrong, The New Mercedes GLB Looks Suspiciously Like A Smart

Following its earlier appearance in regulatory filings, Smart has now released a fresh batch of images of the #6 EHD. Mercedes-Benz was responsible for the exterior, and Smart says the whole thing takes its cues from marine predators.

At the front, the hood integrates functional air channels that Smart has branded “Bionic Shark-Gills.” Around the rear, a four-stage adjustable spoiler is said to echo the movement of a shark’s tail Or so the company claims, so take that with a pinch of seal salt.

Other details include tightly drawn body surfacing along the profile, aggressive LED headlights linked by a central grille element, and full-width LED taillights set within a sculpted rear panel.

At 4,906 mm (193.1 in) long, the #6 sits in executive sedan territory, being closer to a Mercedes E-Class or BMW 5-Series than anything Smart used to build. The 2,926 mm (115.2 in) wheelbase is the longest the brand has put into production, which should pay dividends for cabin space.

The interior has yet to be revealed, but spy shots suggest it will feature a tall center tunnel and a large infotainment display with the latest tech, similar to the Smart #5 SUV.

Electrified Powertrains

The Smart #6 sits on Geely’s PMA2+ architecture, a further development of the widely used SEA platform that also underpins models like the Zeekr 007 and its GT counterpart. It will debut as a plug-in hybrid, with fully electric versions set to follow, including a range-topping Brabus variant.

More: Smart’s About To Drop A #2 On The City Car Segment

The EHD, short for Extended Hybrid Drive, uses Geely’s NordThor 2.0 system. It pairs a turbocharged 1.5-liter gasoline engine with a front-mounted electric motor, delivering a combined 429 hp (320 kW / 435 PS). The headline figure is range, with a claimed 1,810 km (1,125 miles) on the CLTC cycle, including up to 285 km (177 miles) in electric-only driving.

The Smart #6 EHD is scheduled to launch in China in the coming months, ahead of a global rollout. Pricing will be announced at a later date.

Smart

Exclusivity is a powerful currency in the car world, and it’s not just reserved for exotics. Mahindra is now learning that the hard way. After two rapid-fire sellouts of its officially licensed BE 6 Batman Edition, the automaker is now dealing with pushback from early buyers and has rolled out a 30-day buyback scheme.

The BE 6 Batman Edition first appeared in August 2025, bringing a mix of exterior and interior details inspired by the Dark Knight. It was initially pitched as a 300-unit run, but demand quickly changed those plans. Mahindra expanded production to 999 units, and they were gone in a claimed 135 seconds.

More: Mahindra’s Confused Formula E SUV Looks More Dakar Than Formula

By March 2026, Mahindra went back for another round, reopening orders for a second batch of 999 units on the back of what it called “unprecedented demand”. Those didn’t hang around either, selling out in just seven minutes and confirming there’s strong appetite for anything with a hint of Bruce Wayne about it.

Disappointment Among The “Founding Owners”

What was pitched as a 1-of-300 collector’s piece quickly ballooned into a 1-of-1,998 run. So much for exclusivity. Unsurprisingly, owners weren’t thrilled, and social media filled up fast with complaints accusing Mahindra of watering down what was meant to feel special.

More: You Can Buy Four Of These Wrangler Clones For One Jeep And Still Have Cash Left

In response, Mahindra has taken the unusual step of offering a way out. First-batch buyers now get a 30-day window, from March 18 to April 17, to return their Batman SUVs for a full refund. Hand the keys back, and you’ll get ₹27.79 lakh ($29,900), the original ex-showroom price, rather than the slightly higher ₹28.49 lakh ($30,700) attached to the later batch.

Whether owners will actually hand the keys back is anyone’s guess. Some might take the guaranteed refund, others may hold on and hope values recover. Not long ago, low-mileage first-batch cars were advertised at up to ₹45 lakh ($48,500). Since the second wave landed, that’s slipped to roughly ₹29–31 lakh ($31,200–33,400).

The Electric Batmobile

So why all the noise in the first place? This special edition came together through a collaboration with Warner Bros Discovery Global Consumer Products. Underneath the themed styling, it’s based on the range-topping BE 6, packing a 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS) electric motor and a 79 kWh battery.

More: You Can Pretend To Be Batman With This Bulletproof Lamborghini

Visually, the Batman Edition is distinguished by the Satin Black shade with gloss black graphics, an Alchemy Gold finish for the suspension and the brake calipers, 20-inch alloy wheels, and countless bat emblems around the bodywork.

Inside, it leans fully into the theme. Black suede and leather cover most surfaces, broken up by gold accents that make sure you don’t forget this is the special one. Then come the details. Custom puddle lights, bespoke welcome animations on the infotainment screen, unique sounds, even an illuminated bat logo set into the glass roof.

Despite the production increase, the “Founding 999” units still hold a slight edge because they are the only units with the numbered dashboard plaques.

As for Mahindra, it’s sticking to the script. The company says these kinds of editions are about “celebrating passion and individuality,” and hints that more of these themed projects are already in the pipeline for 2027.

Mahindra

Fiat is lining up three debuts for the Paris Motor Show this October, two production cars and one concept. In the process, the brand returns to the compact segment, all but confirming that the long-teased “Giga Panda” SUV and Fastback will be the main attractions.

Building on the momentum of the Grande Panda, these new additions are set to be larger, more practical, and better suited to family duties. Their designs will closely follow the 2024 concepts, with the SUV adopting a more upright rear end, while the Fastback getting a sloping roofline similar to the Citroen Basalt.

More: Fiat’s New SUV Concept Just Got Real And The Fastback Roofline Isn’t Even The Best Part

Expect the two models to share a front-end design, featuring pixel-style LED lighting and a covered grille. Our speculative rendering, which is based on earlier prototype sightings, depicts the Fastback with modern styling cues borrowed from the smaller Grande Panda.

Underneath, both sit on Stellantis’ Smart Car platform, already in use on models like the Citroen C3 Aircross and the Opel Frontera. While it’s a cost-conscious architecture, it’s also a flexible one, supporting everything from combustion to mild-hybrid and fully electric powertrains.

More: A Tiny Crossover May Finally Bring Gas Engines Back To Abarth

Fiat has shared almost no details about the new concept, beyond vaguely calling it “exclusive.” Whether it previews another future addition to the expanding Panda family remains unclear.

What Else Will Stellantis Debut?

While Fiat focuses on the more affordable end of the spectrum, the wider Stellantis lineup is also bringing a few noteworthy debuts to this year’s Mondial de l’Auto in Paris.

More: New Lancia Crossover Appears In The Wild Hiding A Famous Old Name

Lancia is set to take a leading role with the public debut of the all-new Gamma. It arrives as a sleek fastback-style crossover and will be built at the Melfi plant in Italy, alongside the DS No8. Underneath, it uses the STLA Medium platform, with a full spread of options including electric, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

Citroen is also bringing a new concept to Paris, promising something “packed with personality.” Whether that means a pure design study in the vein of the late-2025 ELO concept or an early look at a future production model is still up in the air.

More: Stellantis Admits EV Bet Went Too Far, $26 Billion Later

Leapmotor, the Chinese brand backed by Stellantis, will also make an appearance with the B03 subcompact hatchback, positioned as the lower, better-looking counterpart to the B03X SUV. A different shape, same idea.

As for DS Automobiles, the more premium French brand is set to roll out the No7 SUV following its recent online reveal. The Stellantis roster, which includes Peugeot, Opel, and Alfa Romeo, will be on hand, though their displays will stick to models we have already seen.

The trail of breadcrumbs pointing to the return of a proper Subaru STI has been an entertaining one to follow. Shortly after the company put its new racing hatchback through testing, a set of patent drawings surfaced online, fueling more speculation about a potential production version.

The patents, filed at the Japan Patent Office, depict a Subaru hatchback with a wide body kit, WRX-sourced headlights, a new grille, and prominent aero components. It looks nearly identical to the Performance-B STI Concept from the 2025 Japan Mobility Show.

More: Subaru Says STI Is “Not Dead”, But Its Boxer May Be

A closer look reveals only minor differences, namely the absence of extra vents on either side of the signature hood scoop and the lack of tailpipes at the rear. The latter likely relates to the patent application itself, much like the blank wheels and simplified lighting details.

Concept Design Captured In Patents

Japan Platform for Patent Information

As reported by Top Gear Philippines, which spotted the filing on the Japan Platform for Patent Information, the documents were submitted on September 29, 2025, one month before the show car’s debut on October 30. The timing, combined with the near-perfect visual match, strongly suggest these drawings depict the Subaru Performance-B STI Concept rather than a rumored 2027 production model.

More: Subaru Showed Four New STI Models, And Not Even One’s A Real STI

A quick search of the same database shows that similar patents for the Subaru Performance-E STI Concept were filed on the very same day. They replicate the fully electric fastback’s design without any changes. This is standard practice, as automakers routinely secure design protection for both concepts cars and future production models ahead of their public debut to prevent copyright issues.

What About The Rumors?

While these patents likely exist for legal reasons, the timing of their discovery is what has enthusiasts paying attention. Subaru’s HiPerfX2 hatchback, essentially the racing counterpart to the Performance-B STI Concept, is set to compete in Japan’s Super Taikyu series, where it will double as a rolling development lab.

More: Subaru’s WRX STI Hatch Is Back On Track, Just Not On The Street

The race car pulls together an assortment of WRX STI sedan components, wrapped in a widebody hatchback silhouette that appears to draw from the Impreza. Under the hood sits a motorsport-tuned version of the turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer engine, producing 359 hp (268 kW / 364 PS), paired with a six-speed manual gearbox and an all-wheel-drive system.

Subaru Performance-B STI Concept

Talk of a 2027 return for the WRX STI hatchback starts to make more sense when you look at the gaps forming in Subaru’s current lineup. The company has confirmed it will stop taking orders for the WRX sedan in Japan, along with the Levorg and Layback wagons, leaving some notable space to fill.

Another telling move is the removal of the STI Sport grade from the WRX range, which could be less about trimming options and more about clearing the stage for something more exciting with the STI badge.

Whether this all points to a routine model year reshuffle or a deeper generational reset, one that finally brings the STI badge back to a hot hatch, is still an open question.

Subaru Performance-E STI Concept

Audi is finally stepping into a part of the market it has long circled but never fully committed to. In 2026, that changes with the arrival of the Q9, a proper flagship SUV aimed squarely at the heavyweight class. At the other end of the lineup, the brand is also revisiting a familiar idea, confirming a new entry-level EV that brings back the A2 name.

Speaking at the 2026 Annual Media Conference, CEO Gernot Dollner pointed to both arrivals as key pieces of Audi’s next move. “The new Audi Q9 strengthens our position in the US and defines the top of our portfolio. And with the A2 e-tron, we are bringing a highly efficient entry point into electric mobility to market in fall 2026, a clear statement on efficiency.”

More: This Is The SUV Audi Dealers Think America’s Soccer Moms Actually Want

For years, Audi’s North American dealers have been asking for something bigger and more imposing than the Q7. It sells well enough, but it does not quite deliver the size, presence, or third-row space that full-size SUV buyers in the US expect. The Q9 is intended to close that gap, arriving alongside a next-generation Q7, with both models confirmed for a 2026 debut.

Audi Q9 | Photo: Baldauf

Audi has yet to show the Q9 in any official form, but spy shots have already done most of the talking. What they reveal is a big, upright SUV with split LED headlights, a wide grille, pronounced shoulders, and the expected three-row layout. It’s aimed directly at the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS, and it looks ready for that fight.

The large SUV will ride on a stretched version of the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture, which supports both traditional engines and hybrid setups. The range is expected to go beyond the usual trims, with an SQ9 packing V8 power and a range-topping Horch version rivaling Maybach’s offering.

Entry-Level EV And Rivian Partnership

While the Q9 will grab most of the attention in the US, Audi has something very different lined up for Europe. The A2 e-tron, previewed in an official teaser, returns as a compact entry-level EV. It is scheduled to debut in fall 2026 and will ride on VW Group’s familiar MEB architecture.

More: Audi Confirms The A2 Is Back, Prays It’ll Sell This Time

Audi is also casting an eye further ahead with its Rivian partnership. The first model to use the new E/E architecture from the RV Tech joint venture is due in 2028, and it is widely expected to take the shape of a high-end off-roader, targeting the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender.

Audi A2 E-Tron

Zoom out to the bigger picture, and Audi knows where the pressure is coming from. China, in particular, is forcing a rethink, and not just for Audi but for Germany’s auto industry as a whole.

“The industry, and Germany as a whole, needs to reinvent itself,” said Dollner. “Today, the US and China are driving the major technology trends, while Germany and Europe have fallen behind. Innovation for customers must therefore become the top priority again.”

Still, the CEO believes that Audi’s ambitious targets for the future are achievable: “Our growth targets through 2030 are both realistic and ambitious – and we are squarely aligning our position in our core regions of Europe, the US, and China to achieve them.”

A Challenging Year

Audi delivered 1,623,551 vehicles in 2025, a modest 2.9 percent decline compared to 2024. Even so, its EV push is gaining traction, with battery-electric deliveries jumping 36% to 223,032 units. Much of that growth came from the Q6 e-tron (84,000 units) and the A6 e-tron (37,000 units).

More: Volkswagen To Slash 50,000 Jobs After Profits Fell Off A Cliff

The Audi Group, which includes the Audi, Bentley, Ducati, and Lamborghini brands, brought in €65.5 billion ($75.5 billion) in revenue for 2025, up 1.5% year over year. Profit, however, moved in the opposite direction. Operating profit fell 13.6% to €3.37 billion ($3.88 billion), and margins slipped to 5.1% from 6%. So, more money coming in, but less of it sticking.

A large part of that pressure came from US tariffs, which carved €1.2 billion ($1.38 billion) out of the bottom line. Even so, net cash flow improved by 11.4% to €3.422 million ($3.95 million).

“We ended a challenging year with robust finances,” said Audi CFO Jürgen Rittersberger. ” The key now is to seize all operational and financial opportunities to make Audi more efficient, competitive, and profitable.”

For 2026, Audi predicts a revenue between €63-68 billion ($72.7-78.4 billion) and an improved operating margin of 6-8%.

Volkswagen’s commercial vehicles division has offered a preview of what’s coming next for its van lineup at the 2026 Annual Media Conference. Alongside a business update, the company released official sketches teasing facelifted versions of the Caddy and the Multivan T7, both scheduled to arrive later this year with styling revisions and cabin upgrades.

The first teaser focuses on the Caddy. Up front, the van picks up a redesigned bumper that replaces the previous body-colored mesh pattern with more traditional cooling intakes. The grille shown in the sketch appears to drop illuminated elements altogether, though it remains unclear whether that detail will apply across the entire trim range.

More: Volkswagen Renames Its Hatch To ID.3 Neo, But The Real Change Is Inside

The Multivan T7 receives a similar refresh, although its front end retains the LED light strip spanning the grille. The headlights adopt revised LED graphics, and the van shown in the teaser wears a new two-tone paint scheme that echoes the look of the ID. Buzz.

Beyond the exterior tweaks, Volkswagen says both vans will receive what it calls “significantly optimized interior solutions.” The most obvious change will be larger infotainment displays paired with simpler, more intuitive menus, an update the company claims will make everyday use noticeably easier for owners.

More: VW Locks Gas Tiguan In Until 2035 With Two Major Updates Planned

It has also been confirmed that the 2026 MY updates will be applied to the California version of the Multivan T7, which was caught by our spy photographers during winter testing. For now, Volkswagen has not indicated any mechanical changes. Powertrain options for the Caddy and Multivan are expected to carry over largely unchanged from the current lineup.

Upgrades For Other Vans

The update cycle is not limited to the Caddy and Multivan. Volkswagen also plans to expand electrified options across the rest of its van range in 2026. That includes new plug-in hybrid powertrains for the Ford-based VW Transporter and Caravelle, giving both models a partially electric option for the first time.

More: VW’s ID. Buzz Picks Up A Feature No Minivan Has Any Business Offering

The fully electric ID. Buzz is also due for a few new tricks. Volkswagen plans to add Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, allowing owners to power external devices directly from the van’s battery. A “Good Night” package and a dedicated Camp Mode are also on the way.

Finally, the Grand California flagship camper will be “comprehensively upgraded based on customer feedback”, and the Crafter will become available with a three-way tipper bodystyle.

Financial Hurdles Amid A Fresh Start

The product push comes as VW Commercial Vehicles tries to bounce back from a difficult 2025. Sales revenue actually rose 11% to €16.86 billion ($19.3 billion), but operating profit plunged 67% to €245 million ($281 million).

More: Volkswagen To Slash 50,000 Jobs After Profits Fell Off A Cliff

Much of the decline was attributed to provisions set aside for CO2 fines in the European Union, largely tied to the slower-than-expected ramp-up of fully electric LCVs. Even so, the brand maintained a solid net cash flow of €1 billion ($1.15 billion) to support future product updates. Deliveries also edged up, with VW Commercial Vehicles selling 428,000 units in 2025, a 6% increase compared to 2024.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

Volkswagen is preparing another update for its compact electric hatchback. In mid-April, the company will unveil a revised version of the ID.3, which will carry the new ID.3 Neo name. The refreshed model brings a mix of hardware and software changes intended to keep the hatch competitive for the rest of the decade, at least until the long-anticipated ID. Golf eventually reaches showrooms.

Alongside the announcement, the automaker released a set of official design sketches. They show a shape that remains immediately recognizable as an ID.3, but with styling cues that align it more closely with Volkswagen’s next batch of electric models, including the ID. Polo and ID. Cross.

More: Volkswagen To Slash 50,000 Jobs After Profits Fell Off A Cliff

Most of the visual changes are concentrated at the front. The headlights are now linked by a slim grille element, creating a more cohesive face, while the bumper intakes adopt a simpler, cleaner design. From the side, the proportions look largely untouched.

Out back, however, the taillights gain updated LED graphics, and the lower section of the tailgate is now finished in body color rather than contrasting trim. Volkswagen is also expected to expand the palette with new exterior colors and wheel options.

Volkswagen design chief Andreas Mindt says the update focuses on refining the car’s overall presence. The goal, he explained, was to deliver “clean proportions, confident surfaces, and a sharper digital character” for one of the company’s most important electric models.

The ID.3 first arrived in 2019 as Volkswagen’s inaugural purpose-built EV, marking the start of the brand’s modern electric era. A facelift followed in 2023, so the upcoming ID.3 Neo effectively represents the model’s second major update since its original launch.

New Software And More Buttons

A major focus of the ID.3 Neo is the new Innovision infotainment system, which introduces an integrated app store for audio and video streaming, gaming, charging services, and parking services. Inside the cabin, Volkswagen has also eliminated the controversial touch-sensitive steering wheel controls, replacing them with traditional tactile buttons.

In addition, a new digital vehicle key option allows owners to unlock and access their cars using a smartphone or smartwatch without needing to carry a physical key fob or install a dedicated app.

Updates For Other ID Models

On the practical side, Volkswagen is rolling out Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability across the ID lineup. This allows owners to draw up to 3.6 kW of electricity from the high-voltage battery through a 230V socket inside the cabin or by using an external adapter. That output can power tools, charge e-bikes, or run camping equipment when the car is parked.

More: VW Locks Gas Tiguan In Until 2035 With Two Major Updates Planned

The software package also receives additional functionality. Updates include Travel Assist with traffic light detection, along with support for One-Pedal Driving.

Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Board of Management responsible for Technical Development, said: “The new software generation brings more performance and an even better customer experience to the ID. models. The new Volkswagen electric models in the small and compact vehicle segments – ID. Polo, ID. Polo GTI, ID. Cross – will also soon be launched on the market with these new innovations, offering more flexibility in everyday life and for leisure activities.”

More Power And Range For The ID.4 and ID.5

While a full facelift for the ID.4 is expected later this year, Volkswagen has already outlined a smaller round of updates for the current model and its coupe-styled sibling, the ID.5.

More: VW’s 1 Millionth EV Took 12 Years, Its 2 Millionth Took 10 Months

Beyond the updated software, the Pure trims of both electric crossovers will receive a new electric motor called the APP 350. The unit recently appeared in the closely related Ford Explorer and Capri EVs. It produces 187 hp (140 kW / 190 PS) and is said to deliver more torque while consuming less energy than the previous motor.

Efficiency gains also come from a new 58 kWh lithium phosphate battery pack. Combined with the updated motor, Volkswagen says the changes increase the WLTP range of the ID.4 by 40 km (25 miles).

Volkswagen

BMW is getting ready to freshen up its flagship sedan. After months of camouflaged prototypes roaming public roads, the company has finally released its first official teaser of the facelifted 7-Series, confirming the luxury sedan will make its global debut at Auto China in Beijing next month.

The current 7-Series generation arrived in 2022, which means it is right on schedule for BMW’s mid-cycle LCI update, short for Life Cycle Impulse. The shadowy teaser image focuses on the front end, revealing a new lighting signature with slimmer, more horizontal daytime running lights. They sit on either side of a larger, more squared-off illuminated kidney grille.

More: BMW’s New Electric 3-Series Has A Reveal Date

Judging from earlier spy shots, the kidney grille appears to switch from vertical slats to a horizontal layout. The split headlight arrangement remains, although the lower clusters that house the main beams look slightly smaller than before.

The side profile does not appear to be changing much. Expect the familiar long-wheelbase silhouette to carry over largely untouched, while the rear receives the usual facelift treatment with updated LED taillights and minor revisions to the bumper.

Neue Klasse Technology

At BMW’s 2026 Annual Conference, chairman Oliver Zipse confirmed that the facelifted 7-Series will serve as the first current model to inherit what the company calls “technology clusters” from the upcoming Neue Klasse lineup. The next-generation X5 is expected to follow shortly after, with its own debut slated for later this summer.

More: This BMW 7-Series Looks Like A Chauffeur Car, Until Your Day Turns Ugly

For the flagship sedan, that means several of the brand’s next-generation digital systems will make their way into the cabin. Among them is BMW Panoramic Vision, the wide pillar-to-pillar display stretching across the base of the windshield, along with the company’s new iDrive X operating system.

Behind the scenes, BMW also plans to integrate four central computing units, referred to internally as “Superbrains,” which handle major vehicle functions and software processes.

Despite those upgrades, the big sedan will not migrate to the Neue Klasse platform itself. Instead, the facelift keeps the current CLAR architecture underneath. As with the outgoing model, it will remain available with gasoline, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric (i7) powertrain options, possibly with small refinements. It is also safe to assume that the 7-Series will gain a new variant from the BMW Alpina sub-brand.

The teaser for the mid-lifecycle update of the BMW 7-Series arrives just weeks after Mercedes unveiled a heavily refreshed version of its longtime rival, the S-Class. The luxury sedan also faces growing competition in China from newcomers such as the Huawei-backed Maextro S800.

Baldauf